Introduction 

What separates managing projects from leading a company? The distinction lies in mindset and focus. For construction professionals aspiring to scale their  businesses, understanding this difference is a vital step in transitioning into a leadership role. While a project manager’s primary focus is on execution, a CEO’s focus shifts to vision and strategy. This shift is essential for creating long-term success and sustainable growth. 

Understanding the Roles 

The roles of a project manager and a CEO are fundamentally different, even though they share some overlapping responsibilities. Let’s take a closer look: 

The Transition from Manager to Leader 

For many construction professionals, moving from managing projects to leading a company can feel daunting. However, this transformation is possible with intentional shifts in perspective and behavior.  

Here are three essential steps to start thinking like a CEO: